Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said that many of the drug syndicates operating in the Philippines are allegedly being run by Chinese nationals with connections to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
According to Remulla, law enforcement investigations have shown a pattern in recent anti-drug operations: several of the groups involved in illegal narcotics activities were reportedly led or financed by foreigners tied to the offshore gaming industry. Authorities noted that these individuals often entered the country through work arrangements connected to POGO companies.
The interior chief said that many suspects arrested in drug-related cases were found to have previously worked in or had links to POGO operations. These networks allegedly use the cover of legitimate gaming businesses to establish criminal operations, including drug distribution and other illegal activities.
Government authorities are now strengthening coordination between law enforcement agencies to monitor foreign nationals working in POGO hubs and prevent them from being used as fronts for organized crime.
Remulla stressed that the government will intensify efforts to dismantle these criminal networks and ensure that individuals involved in illegal activities face legal consequences. He added that tighter scrutiny of foreign workers and offshore gaming operations is part of the broader strategy to curb crime and protect national security.
The government has been conducting several raids on suspected POGO facilities across the country in recent years, uncovering links to cybercrime, human trafficking, and illegal drug operations. Officials say these actions are part of a wider campaign to address criminal activities associated with some offshore gaming operations.
Authorities continue to investigate possible connections between drug syndicates and foreign-led criminal groups while working to strengthen border controls and law enforcement operations.